Scalable and Affordable Metal AM with Additive Industries’ MetalFab 300 Flex

The MetalFab 300 Flex from Additive Industries is transforming the landscape of metal additive manufacturing (AM) with its remarkable scalability and affordability. Unveiled at the RAPID + TCT 2024, this advanced 3D printer allows manufacturers to adapt the build area to their needs, scaling up from 300 x 300 x 400mm to a generous 420 x 420 x 400mm on demand. With a well-established foundation of the MetalFab series, the 300 Flex model delivers high equipment effectiveness and retains compatibility with various industry applications such as aerospace and automotive. Boasting features like automated powder handling, laser calibration, and an incremental upgrade path, this printer epitomizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, Additive Industries ensures that customers maintain full ownership of their manufacturing intellectual property and provides comprehensive support services, making the MetalFab 300 Flex a versatile and valuable addition to any production floor. Have you ever wondered how scalable and affordable metal additive manufacturing (AM) can transform your business? If you’re in the aerospace, automotive, or any industry requiring high-quality metal parts, you might find that the MetalFab 300 Flex from Additive Industries holds the key to your next breakthrough.

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Introducing the MetalFab 300 Flex

The MetalFab 300 Flex, a product from Netherlands-based 3D printer manufacturer Additive Industries, was unveiled at RAPID + TCT 2024. This powder bed fusion (PBF) 3D printer is specifically designed to provide flexibility and scalability, allowing you to expand its build area on demand. This means you can accommodate both small and large part production without incurring the hefty upfront costs usually associated with larger 3D printers.

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Why Flexibility Matters

One of the standout features of the MetalFab 300 Flex is its adjustable build area. Initially set at 300 x 300 x 400mm, it can be expanded to 420 x 420 x 400mm through flexible licensing options. This build area flexibility offers a unique advantage for businesses aiming to keep costs low while maintaining the ability to produce larger components when needed.

Benefits of the MetalFab 300 Flex

When investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, you need to ensure that the machine is not only effective but also cost-efficient. Let’s explore how the MetalFab 300 Flex meets these needs.

Cost-Effectiveness

The MetalFab 300 Flex is designed to be more affordable than its predecessors, offering flexible licensing options that allow you to manage your budget better. Whether you opt for a monthly or perpetual license, the cost is manageable and predictable.

Scalability

Scalability is another significant benefit, with an incremental upgrade path that allows you to scale your operations as your business grows. The system can be upgraded from two 500W full-field lasers to four, providing enhanced output and automation, all while minimizing downtime.

scalable-and-affordable-metal-am-with-additive-industries-metalfab-300-flex Scalable and Affordable Metal AM with Additive Industries’ MetalFab 300 Flex

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Advanced Capabilities for Metal AM

Built on the technology of the previous MetalFab series, the MetalFab 300 Flex offers enhanced features and significant improvements in efficiency and flexibility.

Reliability

With over one million hours of production behind its development, the MetalFab technology is known for high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) rates. Industries like aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, and food processing rely on this dependable technology.

Upgradeable Components

To keep up with your growing production needs, the MetalFab 300 Flex is designed for easy upgrades. Additional modules can be installed to increase both the output and automation of the machine.

Key Features

The MetalFab 300 Flex is rich in features that make it a compelling choice for various industries. Here are some of the key aspects:

Automated Powder Handling and Laser Calibration

The printer includes automated systems for powder handling, storage, and laser calibration. These features not only enhance safety but also reduce structural, expertise, and maintenance costs.

Consistent Product Quality

Automated features ensure consistent product quality by minimizing manual processes and routine maintenance. This results in long-term value and unparalleled operator safety.

Comprehensive Support

Additive Industries offers a variety of support services, including training, technical support, and consultancy. This ensures you can get the most out of your 3D printing investment while retaining full ownership of your manufacturing intellectual property (IP).

scalable-and-affordable-metal-am-with-additive-industries-metalfab-300-flex-1 Scalable and Affordable Metal AM with Additive Industries’ MetalFab 300 Flex

The Technical Specifications

Understanding the technical specifications can help you assess whether the MetalFab 300 Flex fits your specific needs.

Feature Base Specification Flexibility Option
Laser 2 x 500W Yb-fiber Laser 4 x 500W Yb-fiber Laser (Field upgrade)
Focus Diameter 110 um
Optical Calibrations Inline automated laser-to-laser & focus
Accuracy/Reproducibility <0.05 mm< />d>

Build Volume (X, Y, Z) 300 x 300 x 400 mm (11.81 x 11.81 x 15.75 in) 420 x 420 x 400 mm (16.54 x 16.54 x 15.75 in) (On-demand)
Layer Thickness 20-120 um
Machine Size (W x D x H) 2.8 x 1.9 x 2.5 m
Machine Weight 5000 kg
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Detailed Breakdown

  • Laser Options: The base model comes with two 500W Yb-fiber lasers, which can be upgraded to four. This flexibility allows you to scale your operations without overhauling the system.
  • Focus Diameter and Optical Calibrations: The 110 um focus diameter, coupled with inline automated calibrations, ensures precise and consistent manufacturing.
  • Build Volume: The on-demand expansion option means you can shift from a build volume of 300 x 300 x 400 mm to a more extensive 420 x 420 x 400 mm when required.
  • Machine Size and Weight: Despite its advanced features, the machine’s dimensions and weight are manageable for most industrial settings.

Enhanced Security and Data Management

At Formnext 2023, Additive Industries rolled out updates for the MetalFAB series that primarily focus on security and data management.

Job File Encryption

Job File Encryption enhances IP protection, providing peace of mind that your designs remain secure.

DataService

DataService extracts and analyzes machine data, enabling you to optimize your manufacturing processes based on data-driven insights.

Material Innovation

The introduction of M789 AMPO, a maraging tool steel, is another innovation that simplifies the printing process by eliminating the need for build plate pre-heating. This opens up new possibilities in industries like automotive and oil and gas.

scalable-and-affordable-metal-am-with-additive-industries-metalfab-300-flex-2 Scalable and Affordable Metal AM with Additive Industries’ MetalFab 300 Flex

Real-World Application: Alfa Romeo F1 Team ORLEN

The Alfa Romeo F1 Team ORLEN leveraged additive manufacturing to compete in the 2022 Formula 1 season. Despite regulations reducing 3D printed aero-parts, the team utilized several critical 3D printed components. In a notable case study, the C41 car’s front suspension chassis inserts, made from durable Ti6Al4V Gd 23, were 3D printed. These inserts not only reduced the car’s weight but also consolidated multiple parts into single units, capable of withstanding high racing loads.

The Impact on Performance

The 3D printed chassis inserts dramatically improved the car’s performance by reducing the weight to 580 grams, demonstrating the capability of 3D printing to meet the rigorous demands of F1 production.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a scalable, flexible, and cost-effective metal 3D printing solution, the MetalFab 300 Flex from Additive Industries is worth serious consideration. From automated features to comprehensive customer support, this printer is designed to meet the evolving needs of various industries, providing a robust solution for high-quality metal additive manufacturing. As you explore your options, the MetalFab 300 Flex stands out for its ability to scale up without causing disruption, making it a valuable asset for any forward-thinking manufacturing operation.

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So, why wait? Explore the possibilities offered by the MetalFab 300 Flex and take your manufacturing process to the next level.

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